Seattle, Orlando, Rome and London are among the most popular Labor Day destinations in AAA’s booking data this year. Travelers are heading out anyway, even though fuel, airfare and hotels all cost more and the roads are expected to be crowded.
“Labor Day has long been a popular time for a final summer getaway, and travelers continue to prioritize vacations with family and friends,” AAA spokeswoman Adrienne Woodland told WHMI. “Whether it’s a cruise, a national park adventure, or an international trip, travelers are eager to make the most of the holiday weekend.”
What it costs
Average domestic airfare is up 2% from last year, at $750 for a roundtrip ticket. Flights to the most popular Labor Day destinations are pricier still: nearly 20% higher than last year, averaging $790. Domestic hotel bookings are up 9% compared with last Labor Day weekend, and international hotel bookings are 12% more expensive.
International airfare bucks the trend. It is down 4% year over year.
Cruises are the other bargain. Sailings from U.S. ports cost 4% less than last year, averaging $2,700 per booking. AAA travel advisors report strong demand for Alaska cruises and national park trips, which is feeding interest in Seattle, Anchorage and Vancouver. Travelers flying into Denver and Las Vegas often carry on to Rocky Mountain, Arches, Zion and Grand Canyon national parks. Advisors say cruises stay popular because transportation, lodging, dining and entertainment come in a single package.
On the road
Drivers may pay more at the pump. Michigan’s average gasoline price on Labor Day 2025 was $3.30 a gallon. Crude oil, which accounts for roughly half of what consumers pay for gasoline, remains more expensive than a year ago, and analysts cite strong refinery demand and relatively low crude inventories.
INRIX, the transportation data provider, expects the heaviest congestion on Thursday and Friday, when holiday travelers share the road with regular commuters. AAA advises leaving early, allowing extra time and avoiding afternoon departures.
Last Labor Day period, AAA responded to more than 400,000 roadside assistance calls for dead batteries, flat tires, lockouts and towing. Its checklist for drivers: check tires, battery and fluid levels before leaving, and pack an emergency kit with water, snacks, a flashlight and jumper cables.
